doi6待
Jyutpingdoi6
Yaledoih
Definition
To wait or wait for.
colloquialdaily actionstime
How it's used
Cantonese speakers almost exclusively use 等 instead of 待 in daily speech. The character 待 is restricted to formal written Chinese or specific compound words like 對待 or 招待. Using 待 as a standalone verb in conversation will sound unnatural or overly literary.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often try to use 待 because it appears in formal vocabulary, but it is not a functional verb in spoken Cantonese. Always use 等 for the action of waiting.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
